Jogjakarta Part II

The Hindu complex called the Prambanan temples consists of 204 temples. During the "big flash" most of the temples were destroyed and the ones that exist today have been rebuilt using the original volcanic stones that were used in the 9th century when the Hindus peacefully coexisted next to the Buddhists on Java.

The Hindu temple has many carvings. What looks like a stupa is actually an upside down lotus flower which symbolizes purity.

A panel with an image of one of the many Hindu gods. These three large temples were dedicated to; Brahma the creator, Vishnu the protector, and Shiva the destroyer (the most important god). The temple of Shiva is the largest one and the middle one.

One of the other Hindu temples on the grounds of the Prambanan temples.

Me in front of the "evil" statue protecting the grounds (on the opposite side was its "good" twin). This statue is more than a 1000 years old, but the stone looks brand new!

Beef redang dish. Indonesian food sure is yummy!

Some chocolate cake for dessert.

The Sultan's Palace (Kraton) where the 10th Sultan currently resides. He is of age and has 5 daughters so his brother will most likely be next in line. The 9th Sultan actually signed the Indonesian declaration of independence.

Women in the palace creating batik fabric.

To finish my trip, I took a blissful massage and had a rose bath. Wonderful!

Bangkok Part I

This post is dedicated to the gorgeous temples. They were truly awe inspiring, over the top grandeur, and I just had to share these shiny (gold) pictures!

Grande Palace. Murals.

One of the temples. In Thailand, 60% of the population is Buddhist.

Gold.

Shockingly; more gold.

There were many different buildings in the Grande Palace; each one built during a different era meant to represent the grandeur of the time.

Part of the temple.

19th century (Western inspired?) palace residence.

Sofie and myself .

The gates to the monastery next to the Wat Arun temple.

Wat Arun temple.








Thailand definitely has a rich cultural history. They especially like their monarchy. We went to see a movie and before the showing in the cinema, we had to stand up during a 5 min clip of the King's life and his achievements.